EXCLUSIVE / National healthcare systems should embrace the digital era and use Health Technology Assessment (HTA) to become truly sustainable and cost-effective, European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Vytenis Andriukaitis told EURACTIV.com in an interview.

During a trip to an EU-funded health tech company in Brandenburg, European Commission Vice President Jyrki Katainen promoted the EU’s €315billion investment package, which is still under considerable criticism in Germany. EURACTIV.de reports.

Following the implant scandal in which women were given industrial rather than medical-grade silicon, the EU has moved to tighten up regulation on medical devices. But industry says the new proposal “does not contribute to patient safety” and will affect the EU’s speed to market and cripple innovation.

Across Europe, national and local governments are experimenting with e-health initiatives to help relieve demand for healthcare services. But many challenges remain, says David Byrne, who served as the EU's health commissioner from 1999-2004.